Finding ways to visualise and map what lies underground can be challenging, but BIM represents a leap forward in what ground engineers can do. **Autodesk's Civil 3D and geotechnical analysis packages such as Plaxis make it possible to create and analyse 3D models of the ground in a more detailed, dynamic, integrated and accessible way. - Steven Hassall, Mott Macdonald

In recent years, BIM has focused on the built aspects of construction, however, the ground conditions are just as important, if not more important. Unexpected ground conditions are the most common cause of site delays and can result in significant financila costs. the consequences of delays due to these unforseen ground conditions are far too common, far too expensive to rectify and primarily lead to over spends in the project. According to the UK National Economic Development Office (NEDO), after a review of 5000 industrial building, 50% overran by at least a month, of which around 37% of the overruns in the projects were due to ground problems.

With these things known, it becomes imperative that a better job has to be done of geotechnical investigation, something made possible with a BIM workflow.

As with all previous installments in this series, here and here amongst others, we will highlight 7 things to be gained by geotechnical engineers using BIM.

1. Faster and real time Ground Investigation

Traditional methods of working involve isntructing the contractor to conduct the site investigation. The work will be conducted and a report submitted to the consultant. This whole process can take weeks, during which time many aspects of the job may have changed. Unfortunately, due to time constraints in obtaining the reportand data from the contractor, it is often not possible to refine the investigation, resulting in a report that may not be ideal for what was found or the changed specifications. Best case scenario is a delay in the project while an extra investigation is made, otherwise, this could lead to unforseen ground problems and increased costs when rectifying them.

With a BIM workflow, new information is used to update the model as soon as it is available. This information all helps to plan more appropriate site investigations, with the model representing the current situation on the site.

Modern-day technology, such as KeyLogBook and Pocket SI among others, allow for near real-time data gathering on site. AGS data is sent directly to the consultant's office to be incorporated in the geotechnical BIM model within the same day.

These techniques speed up the whole process which enables a more appropriate investigation to be done for both the ground conditions and the current project specifications.

The Geotechnical BIM (GeoBIM) process also enables the collaboration between different geotechnical partners

2. Improved Visualisation and Interpretation of ground data

One of the biggest benefits of its adoption will be to give geotechnical teams the opportunity to share their visions and concerns for the ground conditions early in the design, as well as to provide input throughout the project, including the operation and maintenance phases.

Using BIM, Geotechnical team members are better able to communicate their intentions early in the project design, as well as to provide input throughout the project as well as during operations and maintenance of the structure.

Tools such as AutoCAD Civil 3D and HoleBASE SI are used to visualise the information to help understand the data and allow the engineer to interpret. For example, using Keynetix's extension for AutoCAD Civil 3D allows visulaisation of information such as geotechnical surfaces for use in both BIM models and the AutoCAD environment. This can also be combined with the results from lab tests to help refine the geotechnical model. This approach allows the model to be refined further than traditional methods.

3. Better representation of ground conditions in models

BIM does not change the complexity of identifying hidden features, but it does make them significantly easier to represent in a model. Previous software connected data points crudely and phantom boreholes were commonly created. BIM software like Civil 3D allows customization of geometry between data, permitting the intersection of geological features such as faults anf pockets.

4. Efficiency from the outset

Usually with geotechnical work, the ground modelling involves continuous improvement of the model, incorporating new data as soon as it becomes available and extrapolation of below-ground surfaces. This allows considered design optioneering and refinement at the outset of a project.

During the desk study, for eample, being able to view the latest site plans, is clearly of huge benefit in highlighting any potential points of concern and can help investigation planning.

Engineers can also use the model to identify the best locations for exploratory holes. With these positioned in the model, it's easy to take off quantities and calculate ground investigation cost. Setting-out data can then be fed directly into surveying equipment or extracted as 2D drawings.

5. Interdisciplinary design benefits

Integrating project design models with an accurate BIM ground model enables outline designs to be positioned on the site, making it easier to analyse what's going on.

The GeoBIM model can also be used to automatically update ground conditions for use by other analytical software connected to it, enabling further insights to be gained about the project.

For example, the HoleBASE SI Extension for AutoCAD Civil 3D allows quick and easy inclusion of all geotechnical and site investigation data in the BIM process and CAD drawings. This integration provides the ability to create dynamic geotechnical profiles and sections in seconds as opposed to hours and create civil point groups and surfaces from any data stored in HoleBASE SI.

6. Minimises Geotechnical Risk in Construction

Having access to field data in real time and incorporating it into BIM almost immediately gives the opportunity to refocus sampling and testing mid-investigation. This should deliver more useful data, hence reducing risk and potentially saving money in the long term.

7. Lifecycle monitoring of ground conditions for Building maintenance

The GeoBIM model enables cost-effective repairs and maintenance of assets throughout the project's lifetime. This model can also be regularly updated if there is change in ground conditions over the life of the building, ensuring the most up-to-date information is available when maintenance is needed.

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Izu Obihttps://plus.google.com/112398261100805056365noreply@blogger.com0https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R0Z-kMmW73E/V1h2o5t6LbI/AAAAAAAABHE/KZ-tD5CMKRc9BtPRk4DxsztIaKURSzVcwCKgB/s72-c/DSC01852a.jpghttp://www.thebimcenter.com/2016/05/orion-18-how-to-model-analyse-and-design-waffle-slab.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8620726596838387636.post-798142913288072832016-05-15T22:46:00.000+01:002016-06-14T11:31:54.316+01:00ORION 18: HOW TO MODEL, ANALYSE AND DESIGN A WAFFLE SLABLearningOrion' tutorial we have been using. We will remove slab '1S2' on the first suspended floor and replace it with a waffle slab.

Step 1

We go to 'Storey:St01', and select slab '1S2', then delete it.

Step 2

Next, click on the 'Ribbed Slab' sign in the menu toolbar near the top of the screen.

In the 'Ribbed Slab Properties' dialog box that appears, Go to 'Type'. click the dropdown and select 'Grillage'.

The meaning of the different parameters 'bw', 'h', 'h-Slab' and 's-Block' are as shown below

'h' is the total height of the waffle beams

'h-Slab' is the height of the slab

'bw' is the width of the waffle

's-Block' is the distance between the waffles

Step 3

Click in the area where slab '1S2' so as to create the slab

Step 4

Next, we analyse the waffle slab. To do that, we run slab strips perpendicular to the ribs. Click 'Run', then 'Ribbed Slab Analysis' in the menu toolbar. Check the box for 'All Storeys' in the 'Ribbed Slab Analysis' dialog box, then click 'Design'.

Step 5

Now we design the waffle slab. To do so, Click 'Run' - 'Beam Section Design and Detailing' - 'Rib' to open the 'Rib Section Design and Detailing' dialog box and complete the design as was done for beam design

The major selling point of BIM as a system of working has always been about collaboration. But how is data and information shared between people, systems and professionals in this 'collaborative process'?In this our post today, we are going to be discussing the ways in which data is managed in a BIM workflow. We will be discussing the data formats used, whether proprietary (like .rvt, .dxf, etc), non-proprietary (like IFC) data sharing between software packages, OR data communication to humans using COBie. Now, let us explain what each of these mean and why they matter.

Proprietary file formats

These are file formats created by software manufacturers that are only readable/executable by their own software (or any another software they allow). A major example of this is the .rvt file format. This format works with all Revit software packages (Architectural, Structural or MEP), and those packages with which Autodesk have special arrangements, like Orion, but not software packages by other manufacturers like Tekla. Because of this, interoperability may be hampered.Engineers and Designers, when working with specialist design software having proprietary data formats can use any one of these four options to coordinate between different software packages.1. Remodel the chosen part (for example, a designed piping system with chosen specifications) in the main BIM authoring software (Revit or Archicad.)2. Transfer the designed model (with all its properties) to the BIM authoring software if the makers of both software have a common file format for transfer between them (For example, structural engineering software, Orion, and authoring software, Revit have a CXL filetype for transferring data between the both of them.)3. Convert the file to IFC format and send to the BIM authoring software. For this particular option, the integrity of the file being created has to be assured as there may be loss of data during conversion (that is, ensure all physical (3D information) and intrinsic information (such as quantities and types of materials) are maintained.)4. Use a plug-in that connects the softwares which may have been developed by the companies, software resellers or independent programmers.

Non-proprietary file formats

These are file formats which are vendor-neutral (they can be read/edited by any type of software.) They are usually open source, with professionals from all over the world contributing input towards its development. For the BIM industry, the standard bearer in non-proprietary software is the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC), an open and neutral data file format. This format is being developed by the buildingSMART alliance, which coordinates the global effort towards improving the file format to capture more types of data.There are 3 types of IFC file formats. These are;1. .ifc: This is the default IFC file format2. .ifcXML: This is an XML type file which is generated by sending application from an IFC data file using conversion according to ISO 10303-28, the XML representation of express schemas and data.3. .ifcZIP: This is the compressed IFC file format created from a .ifc or .ifcXML file.Another open source file format is CIS/2, which is used for steel projects

COBie

COBie is an acronym for Construction Operation Building information exchange. It is a data format (spreadsheet for short) that allows for multiple non-graphical/geometric (3D) data to be shared. It is used to transfer data and documents created during the design and construction to the facility managers.COBie is not a file format as against proprietary and non-proprietary formats, rather, it just holds data in a human readable form.To better understand what COBie does, lets compare it to IFC. While IFC helps different software to understand and share BIM data, COBie helps humans understand and share BIM data.The major advantage of COBie is the fact that it can be populated with data manually (by hand) or automatically (from BIM software). The output COBie spreadsheet is a human readable form of data gotten from the IFC model.BIM authoring software like Revit and Archicad have functionalities for converting BIM models into COBie format.

Why does the data format and filetype even matter?

Typically, Engineering professionals and/or specialists work with specialist software made for their craft(structural engineers with Orion, Mechanical Engineers with Vectorworks, Civil Engineers with Autodesk Civil 3D, etc... so you get the point.)But over the course of their work on a project, they need to exchange data/information with each other (for example structural Engineers knowing the positioning of the columns as designed by the architect, mechanical engineers using the building model to plan HVAC/plumbing systems, etc.)A knowledge of the data and file formats and how it works will help the multidisciplinary design team make better informed decisions when choosing software packages, bearing in mind the need for collaboration.For comments and questions, you can reach us through the contact form below. You can also subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters so that you never miss a thing

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Izu Obihttps://plus.google.com/112398261100805056365noreply@blogger.com0https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M2I6l6OrJPA/VxbNQ_qtaHI/AAAAAAAAA_w/JLgiV9b1Z1Q1y-w0F55fM7NhaTSzvHMVQCLcB/s72-c/Untitled-3.jpghttp://www.thebimcenter.com/2016/03/what-is-clash-detection-how-does-bim-help.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8620726596838387636.post-34560853797264817712016-03-01T20:41:00.001+01:002016-03-12T06:12:24.315+01:00What is clash detection? how does BIM help?

Image courtesy of revit.com.au

Perhaps you have gotten that pesky message before saying "Lines cannot intersect each other, The highlighted lines currently intersect" when trying to place a slab on a wall in Revit (or maybe any other such message) when placing objects??? then you just saw a clash being detected. So... what is it really about?
What is a clash?A clash occurs when elements of different models occupy the same space. A clash may be geometric (for example, pipes passing through walls), schedule based (when different aspects of work that are supposed to be sequential are scheduled to occur together or in reverse), or changes/updates not made to drawings.

But is there no way to check for clashes without BIM?

There is... but it is very tedious. It involves overlaying of drawing to see if there are any conflicts. With BIM though, this process is vastly improved as BIM brings automation to clash detection.

So what does clash detection serve to achieve?

Clash detection helps in effective identification, inspection and reporting of interferences in a project model. It is used for checking completed/ongoing work and reduces the risk of human error during model inspections. Clash detection is necessary because several models (structural, MEP, etc) are integrated into one main BIM model. With clash detection, mistakes which normally would have been discovered on the site (with high cost and schedule implications when corrected at that stage) can now be seen in the office even before anyone sets foot on the site. BIM even makes clash detection possible for objects within objects (a steel rod completely immersed inside a concrete wall)

There are 3 main types of clashes that clash detection seeks out:
1. Hard Clash: when two objects pass through each other. Most BIM modelling software eliminate the likelihood for this using clash detection rules based on embedded object data (like the image above)

2. Soft Clash: work to detect clashes which occur when objects encroach into geometric tolerances for other objects (for example, a building being modelled too close to a high tension wire).

3. 4D/Workflow Clash: clash resolves scheduling clashes and abnormalities as well as delivery clashes (for example, work crews arriving when there is no equipment on site)

So what BIM software is available for Clash Detection?

There are 2 types of clash detection software
a. BIM modelling design software: Clash detection within this is limited as it can only work on models created by the software (proprietary models.) For example, when you try to place a slab on a set of walls that do not make contact with each other in Revit, the software notifies you of a clash.

b. BIM Integration tools that perform clash detection: is used to detect clashes between different non-proprietary software (software from different companies). Alterations, though, have to be carried out in the software in which the clashing part of the model is created. For example, After integrating all the models into a BIM modelling software like Revit, and carrying out clash detection with Navisworks, a mistake made by the Structural Engineer using Orion will involve having the structural Engineer make the changes in Orion before reintegrating into Revit. Examples of this type of Clash detection software include Navisworks and Solibri.
Is clash detection really that important?Estimates of savings due to clash detection in the industry is about $17,000 per detected clash.

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Izu Obihttps://plus.google.com/112398261100805056365noreply@blogger.com0https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jjdnDSSFcCw/VtIUCcDr9EI/AAAAAAAAA-g/KGl4ehLD_t8/s72-c/2015-02-17_16-44-04-695x522.pnghttp://www.thebimcenter.com/2016/02/csc-orion-18-how-to-model-analyse-and-design-raft-foundations.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8620726596838387636.post-50089373992791154982016-02-04T15:34:00.000+01:002016-06-14T11:40:00.807+01:00ORION 18: HOW TO MODEL, ANALYSE AND DESIGN RAFT FOUNDATIONSIn this tutorial, we will learn how to model analyse and design raft foundations.

Step 1

As with all our previous tutorials on foundations here, here and here, open the 'St:00' storey. With the storey open, delete all the pad foundations there. In the region slated for raft foundations in our 'LearningOrion' tutorial, Create a slab of 600mm depth using the Axis Region slab insertion method (because there are no beams in the foundation.)

Step 2

Next, we model 1m cantilever slabs around the edges of the created slab. We do this by selecting the slab icon in the members toolbar. Among the slab types, select '12', then click on one end of the axis line along the edge of the beam. Without releasing the mouse, click on the second end to create the cantilever slab. Do this around the four edges of the first slab we created.

Step 3

To carry out reinforcement design, introduce an FE slab strip. For this, click 'Slab Strip' in the members toolbar, then under 'Type', select 'FE Strip'. Click the left side of the slab (outside the slab), and without releasing the mouse, draw the strip across the slab. This will be used at the end of our analysis stage.

Step 4

The analysis and design for raft foundation is based on Finite Element (FE.) Click 'Run' in the menu toolbar, then 'FE Raft Foundation Analysis'. Under 'Floor Mesh and Analysis' in the dialog box that appears, click 'Raft Foundation Mesh And Analysis'. In the 'MatFoundation Analysis' view, click 'Generate Model'. The mesh for the slab is generated. Close this view to automatically begin the analysis.

Step 5

Click 'Analysis Post-Processing' to view the contour diagrams for different areas of the raft foundation. To design reinforcement, click, then right click on the slab strip created earlier, select 'Properties' and click 'Update'.

For comments and questions, you can reach us through the contact form below. You can also subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters so that you never miss a thing.

For this tutorial, we will be modelling and designing pile cap and foundation on Orion 18. You can also check out our previous installment on modelling and designing strip foundations here, or our first foundation design where we modelled pad foundations here. Let's go.

Step 1

Open the FoundationStorey, St:00. Next click, then right click on column ‘1C16’ for the foundation. Select ‘Insert Pile Cap’.

Step 2

In the ‘PILE CAP DESIGN – Project: LearningOrion’ dialog box, under the ‘General’ tab, we will specify our pile cap dimensions. Untick the box next to ‘Calculate Automatically’. Set ‘Lx’ and ‘Ly’ to be equal to 2000mm. Click ‘Calculate’. A fourth tab titled ‘Results’ is created and opened displaying the forces encountered by the pile cap. The value of ‘Lx’ and ‘Ly’ has been changed to 2200mm as part of the design process. This change may be upwards or downwards depending on the load used for designing the pile.

NB:

Orion does not carry out pile cap depth check, reinforcement design, shear or moment checks for pile caps. It only analyses the loading and selects pile cap size, pile size and number of piles. Click ‘OK’ to display the pile cap

Step 3

For other columns among the group for our pile cap design, we will design them together. Hold, ‘ctrl’ on the keyboard, then select the rest of the columns visible in the area for pile foundations. Right click and select ‘Insert Pile Cap’. In this case, the dialog box does not appear. Click ‘OK’ on the ‘Pile Base Options’ dialog box that appears to create the other pile caps.

For comments and questions, you can reach us through the contact form below. You can also subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters so that you never miss a thing.

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Izu Obihttps://plus.google.com/112398261100805056365noreply@blogger.com0https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6OVNSQ6anug/VqCv-Xw0S0I/AAAAAAAAA4c/F4yHqKcRiZo/s72-c/Capture178.pnghttp://www.thebimcenter.com/2016/01/csc-orion-18-how-to-model-and-design-strip-foundations.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8620726596838387636.post-32724868970081625442016-01-15T13:52:00.001+01:002016-06-14T11:46:53.783+01:00ORION 18: HOW TO MODEL AND DESIGN STRIP FOUNDATIONSIn our previous tutorial on foundations, we dealt with the design of pad foundations underneath columns. Over the course of our next three tutorials, beginning with this, we will do so for other types of foundations which are strip, pile cap and raft foundations respectively.

To achieve this in our tutorial, we will apportion some of the previously designed pad foundations into the other types.

Step 1:

Double click ‘Storey: St00’ in the Structure tree view on the left side of the screen to get the whole view of all our previously designed foundations.

Since we have already designed for pads, next, we design for strip foundations. Firstly, we will delete the pad foundations in the area marked out for the strip foundation. In Orion 18, beams are required to design strip foundations. Since we originally don’t have beams in our foundations, we will create beams for the strip foundations

NB:

Building Analysis of the building has to be done before we can proceed with the design of foundation.In the case of our tutorial, we have already done that previously. For the beams, we will create it using the properties as shown in the dialog box below. The depth of the beams created 'h' will be the depth of the strip foundation.

Step 2:

While holding ‘ctrl’, select all the beams, then right click and select ‘Insert Strip Footing’. A ‘STRIP FOOTING – Project: LearningOrion’ dialog box appears. Tick the ‘Design Envelope’ box at the top of the dialog box. Click ‘Calculate’ to design the strip foundation based on the parameters in the dialog box.

Step 3:

In the ‘Strip Footings Results – Footing 3’ dialog box that appears, you can check the values for axial load, moment as well as Shear, span moments and support moments used for the design. Click on the ‘Diagrams’ tab to see the loading, shear force and bending moment diagrams for the foundation as shown below. The results can also be printed using the buttons at the top right hand side of the dialog box. Click ‘OK’ to return to the design area.

Step 4:

Next, we will design the foundation. To do that, we select ‘Run’ --‘Beam Section Design and Detailing’ -- ‘Create/Update Footing Beam Records’ in the main menu. Click ‘Yes’ in the dialog box that appears. This updates the values of the footing analysis so that it can be used for Foundation beam Design.

Next, we select ‘Run’ – ‘Beam Section Design and Detailing’ – ‘Foundation Beams’ to design the strip foundation as a Foundation beam. The rest of the design is then carried out as was done for Storey beamsin our earlier tutorial.

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Izu Obihttps://plus.google.com/112398261100805056365noreply@blogger.com0https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--XMvXz4QSPM/Vpjjyw3QvhI/AAAAAAAAA3E/F3hn9bfjmHE/s72-c/Capture181.JPGhttp://www.thebimcenter.com/2015/12/bimfor-real-estate.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8620726596838387636.post-33994175887750927582015-12-01T21:19:00.001+01:002016-06-14T11:18:52.946+01:00#BIMfor Real EstateIn real estate, be it development or management, it is very vital to optimize processes at every stage, design, construction and maintenance of buildings. With BIM, numerous small gains in efficiency in different parts of the process ensure that the estates can be developed and managed in a cost effective and sustainable manner, ensuring value for the client over the life of the asset. Here, we highlight 7 benefits to be gained from implementing BIM in different sectors of real estate

1. Advanced Planning with cutting edge technology

With BIM, designers can create 3-dimensional models that show all of the planned systems and parts to be constructed and how they are positioned relative to each other. For example, Using a model displaying electrical and plumbing systems, with their positions relative to the structural columns and walls, designers can ensure that a clash like a pipe passing through a steel beam is avoided. For a developer who may have planned and is carrying out several developments using one plan, such an error, if missed during the design stage of the project can be the difference between success and failure of the project. The BIM manager helps oversee the digital platform and updates information on it as soon as changes occur on site, with the database of information easily updated, rather than creating new 2D documentation, with all the time it takes.

2. Time and cost savings

Using BIM, construction delays can be reduced and cost overruns eliminated. It also facilitates offsite prefabrication of building components, reducing project waste and increasing efficiency during construction. The Clash Detection capability of BIM reduces the need for Request for Information (RFIs) and change orders, thereby saving time and money. More time and cost savings are also achieved through BIM optimization (of quantities, etc), automation (of changes to design) and interoperability features which create a synergy between different professionals.

3. Coordinated Building Maintenance and Management

BIM can be used for managing buildings as details in it can allow it to be used in place of physical inspection, particularly when product and/or part-specific information is presented in digital form. A detailed BIM model can be used to schedule maintenance of building parts so that there is no stoppage of work due to breakdown of building systems. For example, using manufacturer information on standby generators in a building, including warranty and scheduled maintenance, a building manager can schedule periodic maintenance to avoid possible damage to the generator. If parts are changed, these changes can also be updated in the model. This ability to improve the model continuously over the building life ensures that maintenance work on the building will always be done using up-to-date information.

4. Improved Risk Planning and Management

For large property developments, where multiple parties contribute during the design and construction phase, risks of unanticipated design and construction flaws and delays can easily be identified and mitigated using BIM. This can be achieved through the simulation of construction process on the model using all attributes related to cost, planning and scheduling. With this, Contractors can see what can and can't be done, and how to deliver the project at the least possible cost.

5. Energy optimization

With BIM, architects are able to predict energy costs and understand how the digital design will impact energy use during the life of the building.. This way, they are able to better plan a mixed of use of energy sources such as solar and electrical that is sustainable both by the building and the environment.

6. Asset valuation over the property life

The model can be used for cost segregation studies where asset values can be assigned to building systems and materials in the model, making it easier to write off the value of the capital investment over the period of the lease. With BIM, designers can put the asset code into the 3D element in the building during the modelling stage and then tell the model at the end of the project to give an asset schedule.

7. Better marketing and promotion enabled using 3D Visualisation

BIM models can be used for project fly-throughs during marketing and promotion. The As-Built model helps developers explain their project better to development officials and the community, giving them a better understanding and perspective of what is to be developed. This allows for more timely feedback from stakeholders and ensures that they all understand what is to be done before the project commences.

For comments and questions, you can reach us through the contact form below. You can also subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters so that you never miss a thing.

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Izu Obihttps://plus.google.com/112398261100805056365noreply@blogger.com0https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3QqhWpQTfCA/Vl375pvoGoI/AAAAAAAAA0k/CwoqJ6_bI5U/s72-c/realestate.jpghttp://www.thebimcenter.com/2015/11/csc-orion-18-how-to-add-load-to-single.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8620726596838387636.post-91851032924124139142015-11-12T19:17:00.000+01:002016-06-14T11:57:47.078+01:00ORION 18: HOW TO ADD LOAD TO A SINGLE COLUMN

In this tutorial, we will learn how to add loads to a single column. Load types include vertical point loads, lateral Uniformly Distributed Loads (UDL) and lateral point load.

We will use column 1C6 on the LearningOrion tutorial for this tutorial.

Step 1

1.To add a vertical nodal load at the top, Click, then right click on Column 1C6 on the ground floor. From among the options that appear, Select “Add Column/Wall Nodal Load”. In the dialog box that appears, select ‘Apply to Selected Columns and Walls’.

Step 2

2.In the ‘Nodal Load’ dialog box that appears, We input 3KN in the box where ‘G’ and ‘Fz’ intersect to apply a 3KN point load at the top of the column. Click 'OK'.

Step 3

3.To add a load along the span of a column UDL, Click, then right click the column. From among the options, Click ‘Add Column/Wall Span Load’.

Step 4

4.Click ‘Add’ at the bottom left of the 'Column: 1C6 (Storey: 1) Span Load' dialog box to create a new load. For the load case, we call it 'AA'. Or any other name you like. ‘y’ is the distance from the top from which the lateral loading starts. In this case, we want our lateral load to start from the very top so we input ‘y’ as 0. ‘h’ is the span for the load, so we input ‘h’ as 3.5 (height of column) since we want it to span the whole height of the column. ‘w1-Top’ is the DL value at the top of the column in the 1-direction (x-axis) and we use 2KN. We use the same value for ‘w1-Bottom’. For ‘w2-Top’ and ‘w2-Bottom’, We use 3KN. Click OK.

NB: 1. To impose lateral point loads, set ‘h’, ‘w1-Bottom’ and ‘w2-Bottom’ to 0.

2. As we have said before, Orion treats columns and walls the same way.

For comments and questions, you can reach us through the contact form below. You can also subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters so that you never miss a thing.

1. Quick Change Implementation

Incorporating BIM into infrastructure projects enables changes to be made quickly to design data and results. For example, In an Erosion control project, survey data taken at the beginning of the design stage may become obsolete by its end due to surface changes brought about by continuous runoff on the site. With BIM, when newer survey data is obtained, this can easily be put into the model and used in making changes to the project design, giving project stakeholders greater certainty in terms of cost and preventing unbudgeted expenses. This focus in BIM on shifting most of the effort in an Infrastructure project back into the detailed design phase works better as the ability to improve project performance is high and the impact of change is low.

2. Constructability

Typically, Civil Engineers design for code compliance, constructability hardly being a consideration. Because of this, incorrect design interpretations may be made in the field because of ambiguous documentation, which can lead to change orders and delayed schedules after construction begins. With BIM, more effort can be put in to ensure that the project is constructable, as the 3D model can be used for checking what can/cannot be done and how/why.

3. Improved Road Safety

The 3D BIM model can be used for designing better roads. Considerations for safe stopping and passing sight distances is a key factor driving design decisions. Typical Analysis for these is based on mathematical equations applied to straight-line distances. This approach, though, fails to take into account factors such as horizontal layout, road curvature and visual obstructions. Interactive visualisation of the 3D model allows the Civil Engineer to quickly identify whether the road geometry meets critical safety parameters related to sight distances including grades and curvatures as well as design obstructions such as barriers.

Photo Courtesy of CE News

4. More Information for Infrastructure Operation

This is a very significant advantage of BIM over a 2D based process as the model and all the information contained in it can be used in the operations phase of the building after construction. Transportation agencies are increasingly using the 3D model for operating construction equipment with GPS machine guidance. Benefits include increased productivity and accuracy as well as lower equipment operating costs.

5. Optimized Design through Iterative Analysis

The value of a BIM process, where many types of analysis and simulations will take place as part of the design process, allows engineers to quickly cycle through iterations, get instant feedback on project performance and optimize the design for objectives such as cost effectiveness, constructability and sustainability. Traffic capacity, noise, lighting, drainage and signage analysis could all be done earlier in a project as part of the design process, well before much of the construction documentation is done. In this way, BIM opens up the possibilities of different design alternatives, so that the best possible design is used. With BIM, engineers can spend more time evaluating What-If scenarios to optimize the design and less time generating construction documentation. Without BIM, this evaluation of What-If scenarios is inefficient and cost prohibitive. BIM also optimizes roadway design by including visualisation, simulation and analysis as part of the design process.

6. Improved Project Performance Measurements

With BIM, cheaper and more sustainable projects can be delivered on time, with savings as high as 20% and 45% on costs and carbon respectively on infrastructure projects, providing value in terms of finances and functionality.

Increased efficiency and productivity are also immediate benefits of BIM for road and highway design. Since design and construction documentation are dynamically linked, the time needed to evaluate more alternatives, execute design changes and produce construction documentation is reduced significantly. This is particularly important for transportation agencies because it can shorten the time to contract letting, resulting in projects being completed sooner and within more predictable timetables.

7. Better Coordination with other design team members

With other design team members such as Architects, Surveyors and Structural Engineers using BIM, Infrastructure and Civil Engineers have to use it as it helps them to coordinate better with other design team members during the course of their work, thereby maximizing the BIM potential to minimize conflict.

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For facilities managers, BIM is especially important as they are in charge of the building, at the point when the building incurs the most cost in its lifecycle (about 80%), the maintenance stage. As a result, it is very essential for them to be involved with BIM as even the slightest gains in efficiency and cost savings have frees up funds for other purposes. Here, are the seven (7) reasons why facilities managers need to involve BIM.

1. Preventive Maintenance

With the information in the BIM model, organisations can schedule maintenance and inspections for the electrical and mechanical facilities when the need arises. They can use it to prepare maintenance schedule using predictive data, manage daily operation and plan for future purchases and construction additions. Preventive maintenance can be automated so that building managers are intimated on changes that need to occur as and when due. The BIM model can serve as an 'owner's manual'.
The amount of data available and tools available such as operating parameters,usage data, predictive data, service history, replacement price and links to other manufacturer data, combined with a fully rendered, 3D depiction of the equipment creates a powerful tool for facilities managers.

2. Improved Building Lifecycle Management

With BIM, the Facilities Manager (FM) is better able to manage data about the building. This improvement is brought about by increased productivity gained from better managed data. Traceability ensures accountability among disciplines, reduced waste by more accurately predicting outcomes, identifying points of conflict and optimizing processes. The model also enables analyzing of alternatives for upgrades and improvement.

3. Better data management

The BIM model gives a better controlled, accessible and easily navigable way of managing their information compared to the drawings traditionally used. Changes made during the life of the building can be easily updated to the model for documentation. This aids in easy recovery of that data for future purpose and less time spent on data recovery. For example, If the specification for wiring was changed during the life of a building, and needs to be changed again (maybe by a new building manager), the manager knows where to go for information.

Information updates carried out on the models is useful especially if similar projects are carried out in future so to use the in-use data and better avoid past mistakes.

4. Improved Communication

Better communication (and collaboration) engendered by BIM saves time when searching for building information, reduce response time to building problems and enable facility managers improve performance and productivity while minimizing misunderstandings.

5. Better Decision Making

With the accurate, easy to retrieve, information available in the model, building managers are able to plan, make better informed decisions and execute better. Review by regulatory authorities such as fire department is more comprehensive if they use the BIM model as all information is easily obtainable from it. Information about how the building is to be used can serve as invaluable input into the construction phase with the BIM process enabling the evaluation of alternatives to create a sustainable design. With 6D BIM (5D BIM plus facilities management), the impacts of the proposal are considered against targets. E.g. energy efficiency and green house emissions, and by that, the proposal aligned to meet post construction targets, simulating outputs and costs of decisions over the lifetime of the building

Knowing the maintenance schedule for the building also helps in developing a cost plan for different maintenance activities that will go on over the building's life.

6. Improved Space Management

With the model, the FM can analyse the existing use of space, proficiently track the use of space and resources, and help in planning more efficient use of space in the future, such as renovation and maintenance operations. It also helps to detect and manage conflicts when space requirements or purpose change. The 3D drawings of the model can help organisations (especially health and higher institutions) reduce the misuse of space and ultimately maximize its utilization.

7. Cost savings

According to a Carnegie-Mellon study, a 3.8% improvement in productivity in the functions that occur in a building would totally pay for the facility's design, construction, operation and sustenance through increased efficiency (NBIMS_v1_p1, pg 1.) The better planning engendered by BIM, with tools such as simulation and energy analysis of different systems and equipments on the models will ensure the use of the most efficient systems and equipments for purpose, with the cost savings alone paying for the building.

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If you already have a building drawing from AutoCAD but want to continue your design in Orion 18, here is how you will go about it.

Step 1

Convert the drawing from the original DWG format in AutoCAD to DXF file format. To do that, Open the drawing in AutoCAD, then click 'File' and select 'Save As'. In the 'Save Drawing As' dialog box that appears, Choose 'AutoCAD 2013 DXF (.dxf)' (or any other .dxf format) from the 'Files of Type' list. For this tutorial, I'm going to import an old drawing plan I named 'Drawing1' into Orion. Click 'Save'.

Step 2

Open the Orion 18 software, Click 'External Reference Drawing' in the member's toolbar at the top of the screen.

In the 'Reference Drawing Settings' dialog box that appears, tick the 'Display Reference Drawing ' box, then click 'Load'. From the 'Load DXF file' dialog box, select the saved 'Drawing1', then click 'Open' to import the file into Orion. Next, select the unit of import as 'mm' when the dialog box for units appears and click 'OK'.

Step 3

Next, we adjust the drawing so it is well positioned within the drawing area. To do so, Click 'Move' in the 'Reference Drawing Settings' dialog box that is still open, hover on the drawing then click a point on the drawing when the red 'X' appears and drag it to position the drawing better.

Step 4

If the drawing has been positioned but is still too big, we can reduce its size to fit into the drawing area. To do so, we type scale factor of '0.65' into the box above 'Scale', then click 'Scale'. The drawing should fit better into the drawing area.

Step 5

Now we will import our columns and axis into the drawing area.

NB: For axes and columns to be imported, they must be made of straight lines and closed polylines respectively in the AutoCAD drawing.

Click 'Import Members' in the 'Reference Drawing Settings' dialog box. Tick the boxes for 'Import Axes' and 'Import Columns'. Select the layers for the axes and column. Click 'OK'.

If the model check doesn't have any error, close it to view the axes and columns in the drawing area as seen below, with the axes and columns.

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Izu Obihttps://plus.google.com/112398261100805056365noreply@blogger.com0https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zst_sLTpEYo/VieR-6QR7GI/AAAAAAAAAuc/2qG_8Yjy2bE/s72-c/Untitled-2.jpghttp://www.thebimcenter.com/2015/10/csc-orion-18-how-to-export-orion-to-revit.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8620726596838387636.post-66609000427214594232015-10-14T14:33:00.000+01:002016-02-16T22:59:59.292+01:00ORION 18: HOW TO EXPORT STRUCTURAL MODELS FROM ORION TO REVIT

In this tutorial, we will learn how to export an Orion model that has been designed into Revit Structure. This is especially useful for the BIM workflow as it enables the engineer to easily update structural design changes into the main BIM model located in Revit.

Before we start, make sure you have installed the Orion-Revit Integrator for that version of Revit. For this tutorial, we will use the 2015 Integrator. You can download this Integrator from the Tekla website here.

Step 1

In the menu bar at the top of the screen, Click 'File', then from among the options, select 'Model/File Export', then Choose 'Export to Revit Structure'. In the 'Create Revit Transfer File' dialog box that appears, Save the file with its name and in the CXL file format.

Step 2

Run the Revit software and open a new project. Click on 'CSC Integration' in the menu bar. Then Click 'CSC Integrator' among the options.

Step 3

In the 'Introduction' dialog box that appears, Click 'Next'. From the options that appear, select 'First Time' from under 'Import From Orion'. Click '...' to open the location of the CXL file. Select the file and click 'Open'. Tick the boxes for Grids, Levels, Slabs, Beams, Columns, and Walls.

NB: 'Ignore Position' is used for subsequent updates of the model in Revit when you want the object to be updated irrespective of its current position in the Revit model.

Step 4

Next, we map the files from Orion to their equivalent in Revit. Click '...' next to 'Structural Column Types' 'Structural Framing Types' and 'Materials'. For the first two (2), select 'Family' from the mapping files in the Revit Library. For 'Materials', select 'Symbol'. Click 'Finish' to import the model into Revit.

For comments and questions, you can reach us through the contact form below. You can also subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters so that you never miss a thing.

Moving on in the #BIMfor series, we highlight the benefits of Building Information Modelling (BIM) to probably, the most important stakeholder involved in shaping the built environment, the building owner/client. In a world with increasingly limited resources and as the source of funds for the project, it is necessary for the client to understand the ways he benefits from involving BIM in his project, including lower costs, reduced risk and increased programme certainty among others.

Here are 7 benefits to be gained by the client from implementing BIM

1. Cost savings during construction and maintenance of building

A detailed BIM model at the beginning of a project provides energy, cost and time savings during the construction programme. With this model, it is easier to control building cost through accurate costing and on-demand printing of drawings by the design team. Also, the BIM models can be analysed from feasibility stage and tested more accurately than 2D processes to outline business cases.

If the structural digital asset (model) is demanded by the client as part of the deliverables, the information in it can be used by the client for post-occupancy decision making and building maintenance. As only 20% of a building's cost are incurred during construction, (the other 80% during building maintenance), it is extremely important for clients to have a cost effective way of maintaining buildings, something BIM-based design provides.

2. Increased programme and cost certainty at an earlier stage

With the BIM models containing intelligent objects of all the building parts, as well as information like schedule (4D BIM) and cost (5D BIM) provided at an earlier stage, there is little to no chance that any change occurs to the cost or time required to complete the project.

With the increased certainty, there is a greater degree of comfort to a client not currently available with 2D based design methods. This enables him to better plan for the funds to be spent on the project and compare project outcome data in a far more detailed and accurate way than previously possible.

3. Greater sincerity in bidding by contractors

With more accurate estimating brought about by using BIM models, contractors cannot submit artificially-lower bids solely for the purpose of winning contracts by underestimating material volumes and costs required. Instead contractors will be more sincere and concentrate their efforts on more efficient ways of project delivery as a means of winning contracts.

4. Lower risk involved

Using BIM, the proposed model can be tested more accurately to ensure it has a sound business case behind it before construction begins on the project. Also, the client can be informed at a very early stage about maintenance cost plans for the building. In addition to this, clear visualisation and construction simulations of the building also helps to bring down communication barriers between clients and designers/contractors during the planning stages of the project. Buttressing this point is a 2007 Stanford University study which notes that up to 40% of unbudgeted changes can be eliminated using BIM.

5. Better planning and management

From the BIM model, there is better planning and management of the project. Better planning is made possible by virtually seeing the construction process and monitoring progress against programme, leaving little to no room for revision. Better management is achieved as all the building data is stored in a central database that is easily managed. This data can also be used to generate long term maintenance cost plans for the building.

6. Better understanding of the project to be delivered

A by-product of better communication using the model, a client after seeing what the project team is designing, in its final form, has a better understanding of what is to be done, even before anything is started. With this improved understanding very early in the project lifecycle, the client is able to proffer his/her changes and preferences to the project, and be able to compare requirements and results for different design options used by the design team.

With improved safety on the site, brought about by BIM, the client does not incur extra costs on compensations due to death or injury. Using the BIM model, workers are guided through the site even before they even step foot on it. this is especially helpful for new workers. Also, with 4D sequencing and planning, the traffic for the site can be identified and potential sources of hazard dealt with. A safer site also bodes well for the client and gives him a good public image.

For comments and questions, you can reach us through the contact form below. You can also subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters so that you never miss a thing.

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Izu Obihttps://plus.google.com/112398261100805056365noreply@blogger.com0https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lKNhdPBjEEU/VhGorpJKyJI/AAAAAAAAApc/oWbuHfxaNXA/s72-c/Capture135.JPGhttp://www.thebimcenter.com/2015/09/csc-orion-18-how-to-generate-material.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8620726596838387636.post-53075657574095380072015-09-25T15:37:00.000+01:002016-02-16T22:58:22.663+01:00ORION 18: HOW TO GENERATE MATERIAL QUANTITIES REPORTIn this tutorial, we will go ahead and generate materials quantities tables for the structure. Here, we will generate the report for concrete quantities for the whole structure. The procedure, though, is applicable for generating quantities for formwork, slab steel bars, column/wall steel bars and beam steel bars. We will also save the report in Notepad, PDF or Excel Format.

Step 1

Click on "Quantity Extraction Tables"in the member's toolbar at the top of the screen.
A "Quantities Extraction Tables" dialog box appears.

Step 2

Select the type of quantities report you want to generate. For this tutorial, we will select the "Concrete Quantities Extraction Tables". Tick the box next to this option. Click "Create Report". A "Quantity Tables" dialog box appears. Click "Report" to see the "Report Print Preview".

We continue our #BIMfor series, and we highlight seven (7) benefits of BIM to another group of specialists and stakeholders involved in building and shaping the built environment, giving them the context as to how it relates to their work.

In this post, we will highlight the benefits of BIM to Structural Engineers.

Here are 7 benefits the Structural engineer will gain from BIM.

1. Faster Analysis and Design

Using BIM softwares (for example Revit*, ArchiCAD*, Bentley MicroStation*), Structural Engineers are able to model structures containing details of the load, loading type, material properties and any other information required for analysis, then exchange data with common structural engineering analysis and design software (for example Riser*, Robot*, ETABS*, SAP2000*) which carry out design and the change updated back in the BIM model.

2. Optimized Design

With BIM, the structural engineer can obtain the best design that satisfies different criteria such as cost, sustainability and efficiency. This is possible as the engineer can iteratively design using different combinations of parameters, unlike 2D based design, where the structural engineer settles for the first design that conforms to code requirements.

3. No duplication of data

In 2D based design, where designers and detailers begin their work at the same time due to time constraints, they have to work separately, thereby duplicating data. This makes overall coordination harder and prone to error. With BIM, both the physical (shown in 3D in the BIM software and used for printing drawings and schedules) and the analytical model (used in analysis in 3rd party software) are fused into one, therefore preventing duplication. If the structural engineer carries out changes in his own model and this is uploaded back to the main model, only the changes are uploaded and structural documentation can be done straight from the model.

4. Increased productivity

When producing construction documents, multiple drawings are created in minutes from the BIM model when needed, creating far more in much less time. Also, team members in different geographical locations can still contribute to the project as they can access it from the cloud and make their input. As such, international design teams can work together without even seeing each other.

5. Time and Cost Savings

A major time and cost consuming activity in traditional 2D based structural engineering analysis and design is documentation. By using BIM, documentation activities such as drafting, preparation of schedule of quantities, etc are automatically done by the BIM software from the model. The design firm, therefore, saves money that would have been spent on specialist CAD draftsmen as well as time that would have been spent, ensuring projects are delivered on time. Less time spent also means less costs incurred and more bonuses.

6. Error free design during preconstruction

With 2D based design, errors are likely to occur because two (2) different people are in charge of designing and drafting. If the designer carries out any change and forgets to inform the draftsman, maybe due to pressure brought about by time constraints, the drawing to be used is automatically defective in this case.

Also, in cases where structural steelwork and electrical work were designed to pass through the same place, such errors will be corrected when the information is updated to the main model and checked, therefore preventing much more costly change on site, which usually happens with 2D based designs.

7. Access to Online libraries

With BIM, the engineer can access libraries of online elements (for example, bimobject) to use for modelling in the software. This is helpful when a designer may not want a generic type of object (for example, a door) but does not have the time to create a custom object from scratch. This way, the engineer can use those customized by others in the past.

You can also also follow other posts in our #BIMfor series. For those that are Electrical Engineers, Click here, For the Mechanical Engineers, Click here

*Use of a brand name does not intend or attempt to endorse one BIM platform/package over another. This post is not affiliated to, or sponsored by any BIM software provider.

For comments and questions, you can reach us through the contact form below. You can also subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters so that you never miss a thing.

This is our second tutorial in the Post-Analysis part of our tutorial series.

In this tutorial, we will go through the simple steps to learn how to print out structural design reports for columns, walls and beams.

To see how you can print a structural analysis report, you can check our post on it here.

Step 1

In the Members toolbar at the top of the screen, Click ‘Run’, then ‘Column Section Design’. A ‘Column Reinforcement Design – Project: LearningOrion’ dialog box appears. This creates the report for walls as well.

Step 2

In the dialog box that appears, Click ‘Design’ near the top of the screen, then click on ‘Design Report’.

Step 3

In the ‘Column Reinforcement Design’ dialog box that appears, Tick the boxes for ‘Print Loadings and Interaction Diagrams’ and ‘Display All Combinations in the Interaction Diagram’. Change the ‘Font’ to ‘MS Sans Serif’ and the ‘Text Size’ to 12. Click ‘OK’. You can also use any other font or text size you prefer. A ‘Report Print Preview’ appears. Click ‘PDF’ to create a copy of the report in PDF.

Step 4

For beams, the same procedure applies but you select ‘Beam Section Design and Detailing’ under ‘Run’.

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The #BIMfor series highlights how several disciplines can use Building Information Modelling (BIM) tools in efficiently providing information that will allow the structures to be built, operated and maintained.

In our first post, we will highlighted the benefits of BIM to Mechanical Engineers (no particular reason for picking it first).

Next, we focus on 7 benefits the electrical and electronics engineer will gain from BIM.

1. Coordination

With BIM, the electrical engineer coordinates with the architects, structural engineers and other members of the project team, the electrical part of the building, inputting the electrical information in the centralized model early in the life of the project.

2. Clash Detection

One of the most lauded benefits of BIM, it helps the electrical to deal with clashes that may arise. For example, the clash of the electrical wiring path with that for piping and plumbing works. This can be easily resolved early in the life of the project (during design), and therefore avoid costly revisions during the project execution.

3. Maintenance

Intelligent objects (which quickly adapt themselves to new information) of the parts that makeup the electrical system can be stored in the model, complete with its features, capacities and manufacturer’s details , for easy traceability when the need arises for repairs to any part of the building’s electrical system.

4. Calculations

BIM platforms like Autodesk Revit MEP*, help in calculations such as breaker and wire sizing, feeder sizing, wire length calculations and load calculations can be carried out in the software. Also, the electrical engineer can create electrical circuits, group them in phases and specify the sequence in which power circuits are created.

BIM platforms can also be integrated with other electrical engineering calculation software with BIM compatibility, and results of calculations such as (voltage drop, outdoor point by point photometers, etc.) transferred from the engineering software to the BIM platform.

5. Quick Drafting and Annotation

Drawings are easily created from the models in the BIM software. Drawings such as the plan, elevation and section views of the system or element are easily created. Hence no extra time is spent on drafting and annotation of electrical drawings. Also, in case of revisions to the model, the intelligent objects in the model automatically update the drawings.

6. Immediate Visualisation Feedback

The BIM model helps in pinpointing the exact location of the electrical systems and elements in a 3D view of the central model building, including the height from the ground in the building and its position relative to other parts of the building. This kind of view aids in communicating the design intent of the electrical engineer (such as the positioning of electrical equipments like junction boxes and transformers) to other members of the design team and how it affects their work.

7. Internationalisation of Design

Through cloud computing, the electrical engineer is able to work with multidisciplinary teams around the world, remotely from his home country. This feature ensures that an electrical engineer based in Abuja, Nigeria, does all his calculations and feeds the data to a centralized BIM model, accessible to an Architect based in New York, US, and a Structural engineer based in London, UK, for a project to be constructed in Beijing, China.

*Use of a brand name does not intend or attempt to endorse one BIM software/package over another. This post is not affiliated to, or sponsored by any BIM software provider.

For comments and questions, you can reach us through the contact form below. You can also subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters so that you never miss a thing.

In today’s world of engineering, structures and buildings have become more complex than ever before, with the idea of a structure being able to perform more than one function or solve more than one challenge. This has resulted in the need for greater collaboration and interdependency of more than one discipline of engineering in seeing a structure to completion.

The #BIMfor series highlights how several disciplines can use BIM tools in efficiently providing information that will allow the structures to be built, operated and maintained.

Here, we highlight seven (7) benefits of BIM to Mechanical Engineers.

1. More Testing

With BIM, more configurations of plumbing systems, pipe connections and equipment setups can be tried (not just drawn as in 2D) to give the best results in terms of efficiency, sustainability and cost. This testing can either be done with the main BIM software like Autodesk Revit MEP* for example, when the model is created inside, or done on other 3rd party software (that is BIM compatible) and the data transferred back to the main BIM software.

2. Intelligent 3D Models

The 3D models are not just isometric drawings but are objects which contain information. With 3D models such as those of the plumbing layout of a building, HVAC systems or plant arrangements, design intent can be easily communicated to other project team members through better visualisation. Also, design is done with real, intelligent (respond to change in information) objects, complete with manufacturer’s details and specifications.

3. Clash Detection

Clashes such as ductwork and structural steel being designed to pass through the same point are avoided with the use of BIM simulations. Or even in cases where they happen, they are detected during the design stage of the project and corrected (using the model), rather than carrying out costly rework on the site after much of the work has been done.

4. Accurate schedules and reports

The BIM model contains data needed for generating schedule and material take-off. The schedule can easily be generated directly from the model after specifying the kind of data required such as costs, material type, heat transfer coefficient, fire rating, etc.

5. Cost savings

This happens due to reduced amount of rework, better cost estimating and increased productivity. Also, the design firm has no need for employing CAD operators as drawings such as duct layout drawings, plant room layout designs, section drawings of pipes, etc, come directly from the model. Also, during cost estimation, uncertainty margins could be reduced as the models estimate costs more accurately using rates and quantities in the model to develop BOQs of ducts, grills, diffusers, mechanical equipment, etc.

6. Faster change Implementation

With BIM, it is far easier and faster to implement and track changes on the design (everything from the design to drawings and schedules) than traditional 2D-based design and drafting. For example, if it was discovered that flow used in pipe sizing was wrong, the traditional method requires the designer to choose a new pipe size using the new data, then redraft all the previously drafted drawings in the new pipe size as well as update data on the schedules, which may take hours or days. But with BIM, the pipe size in the model is changed and new drawings and schedules can be printed out from the model immediately. Rerouting and redesigning in BIM is easier, along with its attendant documentation.

7. Calculations

Calculations such as but not limited to pressure drop calculations, heating and cooling loads, sound levels, sprinkler network calculations, HVAC duct system design are easier to carry out from the BIM models or 3rd party software compatible with the BIM software. Energy analysis modelling and design can also be carried out.

*Use of a brand name does not intend or attempt to endorse one BIM software/package over another. This post is not affiliated to, or sponsored by any BIM software provider.

For comments and questions, you can reach us through the contact form below. You can also subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters so that you never miss a thing.

Now, we will learn how to print structural detail drawings in Orion 18. This is the first tutorial in our Post-Analysis part of this tutorial series.

Drawings in Orion 18 are created as AutoCAD drawings, therefore, to print drawings, you have to ensure that AutoCAD is installed in the system being used.

In this tutorial, we will learn how to print detailing drawings of the structural members (Columns, beams and walls). For this tutorial, we will print column drawings, though the same procedure is also applicable to beams and slabs.

Step 1

Left click, then right click on ‘Column’ in the structure tree view on the left side of the screen.

Click on ‘Column Section Design’

Step 2

In the ’Column Reinforcement Design’ dialog box that appears, Click on the ‘Detail Drawing’ tab in the top row of the dialog box. In this view, Click ‘Create Sheets’. A ‘SHEET LAYOUT MODULE’ appears. In this module, set the sheet size to the one you want. Do this by clicking on ‘Sheet: A2 (59.4 x 42.0)’ and change it to the print sheet selected at the beginning (A2 (59.4 X 42.0)). Click ‘OK‘ in the ‘SHEET SIZES’ dialog box.

Step 3

To place the drawings in sheets, Click on the name of the column (in this case ‘1C1’), and without releasing the mouse, drag it into the drawing area. The outline of the column appears in the sheet as shown below. Click ‘Save’, then ‘Close’ at the bottom left of the ‘SHEET LAYOUT MODULE’ dialog box.

Step 4

Step 5

To draw all the detailing drawings for all the columns automatically, Click on ‘Automatic Details (All Columns)’ among the options at the top of the ‘Column Reinforcement Design’ dialog box. In the ‘Detailing Drawing Arrangement’ dialog box that appears, tick the box for ‘Storey - 1’ and ‘Display Every Sheet Prepared’. The AutoCAD software automatically prints out all the detail drawings.

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This Saturday’s Lectures will focus on overview of major civil engineering software used in the design and analysis of civil engineering project
We expect key resource person on the following softwares:

In this tutorial, we will be learning how to model and design foundations in Orion 18. With Orion 18, both the modelling and design of the foundation occur at the same time. This is because the software considers the load from the column above, then sizes the column and places reinforcement. We will also learn to display the calculation carried out for the design and print the design report.

Step 1

Double click the ‘Storey:St00’ in the structure tree view on the left of the screen. In Orion, ‘Storey:St00’ is the storey for foundations.

Step 2

While still in ‘Storey:St00’, Hold ‘ctrl’ on the keyboard and select all the columns, one after the other. After highlighting them, right click, then select ‘Insert Pad Base’

Step 3

In the ‘Pad Base Options’ dialog box that appears, tick ‘Create Square Footings’ only, then Click ‘OK’. The columns are created one after the other for all the columns.

Step 4

To see the calculation for any footing, left click, then right click on the footing, then select ‘Properties’ among the options. Displayed in the ‘Pad Base Properties – Project: Learning Orion’ dialog box, under ‘Footing Data’ are the parameters used for the design sand the design results. Click ‘Calculate’ to see the dialog box shown below. To exit the view, click ‘OK’

Step 5

To print the design report, Click ‘Print’ in the ‘Pad Base Properties – Project: Learning Orion’ dialog box. Select ‘Print only Critical Combination’ among the options. The report shows in the Report Print Preview and can be printed or saved in PDF. To save in PDF, click ‘PDF’ among the tabs at the top of the screen. For excel, click ‘TDF’.

For comments and questions, you can reach us through the contact form below. You can also subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters so that you never miss a thing.

By the end of this tutorial, you will be able to easily carry out code based design of slabs and to print out the results.

Step 1

Before we start the structural design of the slab, let us establish the settings to be used. Click ‘Settings’, then select ‘Slab Design Settings’ from among the options. Click the ‘Steel Bars’ tab and change ‘Bar spacing’ (under ‘Min’ to 75) and (under ‘Max’ to 300).

Step 2

Next, Click on the slab strip icon in the members toolbar near the top of the design area. The ‘Slab Strip Properties’ dialog box appears.

Step 3

In the ‘Slab strip Properties’ dialog box, set the ‘Type’ to ‘Analytical’ and select ‘Bob’ for ‘At Start’ and ‘At End’ respectively. This option ensures that both the top and bottom steel as well as the support steel is designed for the slab. It also ensures that the support steel at the edge is bent into the beam/wall.

Hold ‘ctrl’ on the keyboard, then beginning from outside the first slab on the left (3/A, 3/B, 1/A, 1/B), click and drag horizontally across the slab. The ‘ctrl’ button is to ensure that the slab strip is completely vertical or horizontal. The bar detailing for the main bars (including the support) appears, as well as the length of each bar type.

To design for the secondary bars, begin from outside the same slab, Click and drag vertically across the slab from top to bottom. The bar detailing for the distribution bars appear as was done for the main bars.

Repeat this procedure for all the slabs.

ALTERNATIVELY,

Draw a horizontal slab strip starting from left of the first slab to the right of the last slab to automatically carry out the main bar detailing of all the slabs, Distribution detailing will still need to be carried out individually though.

Step 4

To print the slab design reports, Click ‘Run’ then ‘Slab Analysis and Design’ in the menu bar. A ‘Slab Analysis and Design’ dialog box appears. In this box, tick ‘All Storeys’, then click ‘Design’.

A preview of the report is shown which can then be printed out in different formats.

To produce a PDF or Excel format of the result, click ‘PDF’ or ‘TDF’ at the top of the screen.

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BIM, Building Information Model(ling), is defined by the US National Building Information Modelling Standard as ‘a digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a facility’ is simply the digital form of a physical facility. Facility in this definition ranges from buildings and roads to geographical features like gullies, watersheds even towns and cities, etc.

It involves the creation of a digital model, containing all the parts of a facility, together with their properties (attributes like material, weight, soil conditions, etc.). The model can simulate the real life behaviour of the facility. With a single BIM model, there can be collaboration between different specialties (electrical, architectural, structural, etc.) who can work in their areas of expertise at the same time without having to wait for one another.

IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BIM AND CAD?

Yes there is! While CAD, Computer Aided Design, is a digital replication of a hand drafting of a structure, BIM displays all the information about the project digitally, including the costs, quantities of materials, dimensions of parts of the facility and more importantly is able to simulate how these factors affect each other as a single model. This unique feature shows how the work of one specialist affects the work of another. For example, if piping and electrical design carried out separately clash when updated to the main model, this will be easily resolved early in the life of the project by both specialists.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

With BIM, a digital concept or model of the desired facility or an already existing facility is created (say, the alpha model), Copies of these are the given out to the different specialists (Architects, Structural Engineers, M and E, etc.). These experts work separately to fit in their unique components to the model, creating individual models. These changes in their models are then copied onto the alpha model and the changes effected on it. In this way, different specialists see the effects of their work on the overall model in real time as it affects the overall project.

BUT DIFFERENT SPECIALISTS WORK WITH DIFFERENT SOFTWARES, HOW IS IT POSSIBLE FOR ALL OF THEM TO WORK ON THE SAME MODEL?

With the help of Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) standards, information can be exchanged between the alpha model in a software and another software used by a specialist. Also software companies have arrangements with each other such that they can exchange data between their respective software. For example, between (Revit), which contains the alpha model and (Orion) used by structural engineers.

WHY USE BIM?

There are many benefits of BIM to design and construction experts, town planners, facility managers, etc. Some of these benefits include (but are not limited to):

ONE:BIM serves both to visualise a facility and as a database for recording information developed and associated with the project. This will be helpful when future works are to be carried out on the facility.

TWO:BIM is able to track the types and quantities of materials and used. Major building systems may be represented in distinct BIM models which can be integrated into a single alpha model.

THREE:With BIM, it is easy to find out conflicts early in the life of the project and resolve them.

FOUR:It greatly saves time used in carrying out the project especially on an activity like drafting which is very time consuming, thereby saving costs.

FIVE:It helps to reduce miscommunication between parties involved in a project due to its accuracy and ability to communicate effectively between them. It also reinforces understanding visually.

SIX:Quantities and data can be automatically generated by the model, producing estimates and workflows much more quickly than conventional processes.

WHO NEEDS TO LEARN ABOUT BIM AND WHY?

Anyone who is involved in shaping the built environment, from architects, engineers and planners to managers and clients and everyone in between.

It is necessary to learn BIM as it features prominently in the future of diverse fields ranging from engineering and architecture to project planning, project management and real estate.

Countries such as the UK already have a deadline of 2016 for the implementation of BIM Level 2 for all work on public sector work.

LEVELS OF BIM

There are four (4) levels of BIM which are described as follows:
LEVEL 0 BIM: In this level of BIM, it simply means there is no collaboration. 2D CAD drafting is only utilized, mainly for Production Information. Output and distribution is via paper or electronic prints, or a mixture of both.
LEVEL 1 BIM: This combines a mixture of 3D CAD for concept work, and 2D for drafting of statutory approval documentation and production information. At this level, there is still no collaboration between different disciplines as each publishes and maintains its own data.
LEVEL 2 BIM: This involves collaborative working, though all parties own their own 3D CAD models, but not necessarily working on a single shared model. Collaboration comes about because there is exchange of design information between the different parties and is the crucial aspect of design at this level. With this, different parties can combine data to create an alpha BIM model. Common file formats such as IFC or COBie (Construction Operations Building Information Exchange).
LEVEL 3 BIM: seen as the holy grail of BIM, in this level, there is full collaboration between all disciplines by means of a single, shared project model which is held in a central repository. All parties can access and modify the same model, and the major benefit of this is that it removes the final layer of risk for conflicting information. This is also referred to as ‘Open BIM’.

In this lesson, we will learn how to carry out the structural design of beams in CSC Orion18.

In this beam design, we will learn how to carry out the design in batch mode (designing all the beams at the same time by the software), as well as interactively (designing one beam at a time). We will also learn to produce the load, shear force diagram, bending moment diagram and print out the design report.

Step 1

Step 2

In that dialog box, Click ‘Beam Design (Batch Mode)’. From the ‘Beam Reinforcement Design’ dialog box that appears, Select ‘Check Steel (Don’t select new steel when previous bars are insufficient)’. This option ensures that the bar size we selected when we were analysing the building is not changed by the software during structural design and possibly producing an unpractical design. Click ‘Calculate’.

Step 3

After carrying out our beam design, we noticed that some beams failed (marked ‘X’). For example, the beam on axis ‘B’. Double click on that beam to carry out interactive beam design.

The aim during the interactive design is to ensure that there are no more ‘red coloured’ digits in the ‘Reinforcement Data’ dialog box. Click on each reinforcement, then make changes as shown in the image below.

Repeat the procedure on other failed beams.

Step 4

Now, we will show the design envelope for the beam. To do so, Click on ‘Diagrams’, in the ‘Reinforcement Data – Axis H’ dialog box. The moment diagram appears. To view the load and shear diagrams, select them from the bottom of the ‘Design Envelope – Shear Force and Bending Moment Diagrams’ dialog box.

Step 5

To create the design reports, Click ‘Design Report’, then click ‘OK’ in the ‘BEAM SECTION DESIGN AND DETAILING’ dialog box.